Will you be somewhere in Iowa this summer? The Iowa Butterfly Survey Network (IBSN) is looking for several citizen scientists/monitors through the state of Iowa to monitor butterfly populations, as they are important indicators of environmental health.

You don't need to be a scientist to volunteer! Monitors will be trained in butterfly identification and IBSN protocols by entomology staff from Reiman Gardens. IBSN Monitors gather data on butterfly populations throughout the summer months on designated public and private properties and enter data in the on-line database. Survey routes are in field environments and require walking over uneven terrain. Monitors may encounter others during the course of their activities and should be prepared to answer questions about butterflies and the survey.

Monitors must attend one training session (either in person at Reiman Gardens on April 24, 2021 or online) before the season begins on June 1, 2021. Monitors walk their assigned routes at least six times, recording data on supplied sheets or using the app. Monitoring protocols must be followed and date must be recorded accurately and completely.

Monitors are located throughout the state of Iowa and log their hours online.